Notes / Commercial Description:
This is a truly unique brew, combining some unusual elements to create a powerful, yet flavorful brew. I brewed a similar beer to this one back in 1998, while I was home brewing out in California. Only this time around, I decided to age it in bourbon barrels to add a new element to the already rich sensory profile. The combination of dark malt, elderberries and bourbon barrels makes for an interesting tasting experience. This is a sippin’ beer, so sit back by the fire and enjoy.

User Ratings & Reviews

Poured into a snifter, the appearance was a semi-dark brown color with a little creamy colored head leaving some sticky lacing. The aroma had some roast, berries, brown sugar and caramel/toffee malts. The flavor copied the aroma pretty much spot on, leaning to the sweet side and adding some nuts. Subtle nutty to berry aftertaste hitting the finish, somewhat sticky, but slightly acceptable. On the body, this one was medium bodied with a fair sessionability about it. Mild carbonation and the ABV felt good. Overall, nicely strong ale, but was this really a Belgian Strong Dark Ale? Not so sure about that.

Batch #5. More sour than I was expecting. But that's ok. I bought this last week (Jan 2015) from the aged rack at a local BD for $12.99. The bourbon barrel aging is awesome, and I'm working on getting more into sours. I can hang with this. Also, I waited until the first snow here on Long Island. Perfect.